Shelby Blackstock, the son of country music icon Reba McEntire, and his wife, Marissa Branch, are opening up about their intimate journey through fertility struggles. Known for their transparency on social media, the couple recently shared their story in hopes of raising awareness and offering support to others facing similar challenges. Shelby, Reba’s only child, and Marissa have been trying to conceive for over a year, encountering various hurdles along the way.
On Sunday (Nov. 26), Marissa took to social media with a heartfelt post, shedding light on the fertility difficulties they have been navigating.
After months of trying naturally, the couple turned to “Nashville’s top OBGYN” for assistance, and November marked their first medicated cycle. “Though it didn’t bring the news we hoped for, I’m reminded that success is about more than just results — it’s about gratitude for our health and each other,” Marissa shared.
“We’ve faced some scares,” she continued, revealing that she had undergone an MRI for concerns related to prolactinemia, along with an HSG test, both of which came back clear. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists defines hysterosalpingography (HSG) as “an X-ray procedure used to view the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes,” helping to identify potential blockages or any abnormalities in the uterus.
“The two-week wait (TWW) has been full of ups and downs,” Marissa added, referencing the emotionally charged two-week period between ovulation and a home pregnancy test. “I’m not seeking sympathy, but a little understanding goes a long way.”
Despite the trials and setbacks, Marissa’s post also highlights the positive aspects of their fertility journey. “Shelby has been an incredibly supportive partner throughout all of this. His strength and optimism have been my rock,” she wrote. “In the face of challenges, we’ve learned that having small things to look forward to makes all the difference.”
Marissa concluded her message by emphasizing her desire to break the silence and stigma surrounding fertility issues. “It’s a tougher and more common journey than many realize,” she pointed out. “If you’re in this struggle too, know you’re not alone. The emotional rollercoaster is completely normal. Let’s continue to support each other, find joy in the little moments, and hold onto hope.”
Marissa also shared more of her experience on Instagram Stories, posting a photo of a cocktail she ordered to cope with the disappointment of a negative pregnancy test, humorously referring to it as a “BFN” (Big Fat Negative). “Helping myself to a spicy marg after a BFN,” she captioned the post.
Blackstock and Marissa tied the knot at Walt Disney World in February 2022, with Reba McEntire in attendance to celebrate. During the festivities, the mother-son duo danced to Reba’s 2005 hit “You’re Gonna Be (Always Loved By Me),” and Reba even performed her classic “Fancy” for the wedding guests.
